Print this pageHAWKESBURY - Skippered Charter

Skippered Hire
Converted Historic Narrowboat - 70ft

Max Number of Berths: 2 to 4

1 fixed double and 1 make-up sofa double


Boat Plan: Traditional Stern


(Please note boat plans are not drawn to scale)
General Information: A skippered narrowboat with crew (including contented "boat dog") Hawkesbury is the quintessential Charter Boat that allows you to relax or assist in passage making. Do you like the idea of a holiday afloat but don't fancy doing all the work? Perhaps a 'Hotel' boat doesn't give you the exclusive use of the boat or the 'hands on' aspect you were looking for? Either way 'Hawkesbury' could be the solution.

You get a highly qualified Helmsman who manages the boat for you and is independent from the main cabin accommodation and you get to steer if you wish, operate the locks and bridges, even gain a recognised qualification if you are up for it! What you don't get are the stresses and strains of operating one of the largest, heaviest narrowboats on the entire system - leave that to the Skipper!
The last 'Big Woolwich' A former cargo carrying vessel, Hawkesbury was built in 1937 and was the last of the batch made by Harland and Wolff No.148. Hawkesbury is a tastefully converted Big Woolwich Class and offers an exterior saloon and a very comfortable interior fit out, suitable for groups of no more than 4.

Facilities:  Master Cabin with large fixed double bed, quality bath / shower room, beautifully appointed interior saloon with solid fuel stove, sofa bed for guests etc. Light, airy, spacious galley, an enormous exterior saloon under the removable 'Cloths' in the bows. An eighteen-foot long, well appointed and heated external saloon in the bows gives a good seating area for guests. The cloths over the saloon can be either up or down, dependent upon the weather. Our crew can provide teas, coffees and other refreshments for shorter cruises and we have several catering options for a longer cruise. Smoking is NOT ALLOWED in the main cabin areas. 240V Electric supply.

Price: The price includes VAT, bed linen, parking for a maximum of 2 cars (parked at own risk), towels, life jackets (on request), full boat inventory and tuition at start of holiday.

Damage Waiver: A compulsory £35 non-returnable Damage Waiver Fee must be paid for each hire, this provides you with protection from any liability for loss, damage or accident to the boat or it's equipment during your holiday.   The Damage Waiver Payment excludes losses arising from:-  Malicious damage, negligent or intentional damage to the boat, its equipment, the waterway or other boats or structures.  Also, departing whilst the boat is in an untidy condition or departure from the boat past the expiry time of the hire agreement. 

Pets: Pets (max 2) are welcome at £20 per pet per break. Please note: Hawkesbury already houses a friendly mutt, however she doesn't mind other dogs joining her on her cruises and generally keeps herself to herself (in her own separate private quarters, well away from the main accommodation).

Hire Times: The period of hire begins at 3.00pm on the day that your holiday begins and expires at 9.30am on the day that your holiday ends (for 10.00am vacation) .

Please note: Whilst the costs of your holiday includes all necessary insurances for the hire and normal use of your boat, no personal or holiday cancellation insurance is included. It is strongly recommended that you arrange your own cancellation protection and holiday insurances to avoid loss in part or full of the cost of your holiday due to cancellation by yourself in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

When booking: If booking earlier than 6 weeks in advance of the start date, you can book your holiday with a deposit payment of 30% of your total holiday price, or full payment if your holiday is within six weeks of booking.

Minimum age: There is a minimum age of 21 years for any boat hirer.
N.B. Under 12's must be supervised at all times by accompanying adults...this is not the Skipper's responsibility. The back of the boat, roof and side ledges (gunnels) of the boat are out of bounds to under 12's - unless upon the instruction of the Skipper. Life jackets must be worn by under 12's when recommended by the Skipper (lock-side, bow of the boat, etc.)

Click here to view booking & hire conditions.